The fire started about 1 p.m. in the back of the building, which is just off of US 70.

Sheriff tells me seafood restaurant has been vacant for years and used as storage. It’s possible appliances were stored inside. Owner of building discovered 🔥 called 911. No injuries. #ABC11pic.twitter.com/8jVXSa2f0n

For most of the afternoon, firefighters had a tough time getting to fire because of the smoke.

"I've heard of fires in the winter but this is pretty incredible," said Marlene Slieter, a neighbor. "It's been going forever. When I first moved to Durham in 2000 it was still a restaurant and shortly after that, no more. And it's just been sitting here."